Editor:
As an avid pickleball player I read with pleasure the recent article by Jo-Anne Bentley in the Coast Reporter. It has left me wondering how it is that:
- The governor of Washington State has just officially declared pickleball its state sport.
- Vancouver has recently authorized 36 (more) pickleball courts within its parks system.
- Countless communities across B.C. and indeed Canada have facilities for year-round pickleball play.
...and yet our Coast has no permanent, dedicated space for the rapidly growing legion of local pickleball players.
Public play is currently only available during narrowly delineated “‘dry floor” times at the arenas in Sechelt and Gibsons, evenings in elementary school gymnasiums (when available!) and shared outdoor tennis courts. These opportunities are woefully inadequate given that the sport is growing exponentially and is an inexpensive, family friendly and enjoyable way for people, young and old, to reap the benefits of physical activity. Furthermore, it seems to me to be shortsighted of our elected officials not to recognize how quickly pickleball has become a “destination” sport and seize upon its potential as a tourist magnet. How could a dedicated, permanent facility here on the Coast be anything but a boon for the community? It’s a no-brainer!
I am aware that the Sunshine Coast Pickleball Association (SCPA) has been working tirelessly behind the scenes with DoS, councillors, parks staff and the SCRD in attempts to promote the objective of a dedicated facility to serve all pickleball players up and down the Coast. I know the SCPA board and its members are frustrated and deeply disappointed at the tepid interest and support they have received. In an election year I think it’s time the public became aware of this reality.
Peter Fisher, West Sechelt
